Scaling Up Training in Forestry and Environmental Courses in Kenya: Reflection on Challenges and Opportunities in Newly Established Universities

Abstract

The period 2011-2012 observed expanded University education in Kenya. Some newly established Universities launched curricula and training in forestry, agroforestry and other environmental courses which are universally known pillars of sustainable development and social wellbeing. This paper presents information on student’s admissions and enrolment in these programmes as well as challenges and opportunities in curricula delivery, form a national opinion and derive areas of improvement and recommendations. Findings in this paper contribute to streamlining forestry and environmental education, research and training while addressing emerging issues and challenges of the 21st century. Data was collected from University of Kabianga between 2011/2012 and 2015/2016 academic years. Data from University of Eldoret, Moi University, South Eastern Kenya University and Karatina University were used for comparison purposes. Statistics on students’ admissions and enrolment from 2004/2005 to 2014/2015 were used to cover periods before and after expansion of Universities. The study revealed a positive strong correlation between increasing the number of Universities on the levels of students’ admissions and rate of enrolment in Kenya. Diversification of programmes within any given University also indicated positive effect on levels of students’ admissions and enrolment rates. However, high rates of late reporting and deferment of courses hint at University education challenges to be addressed. Kenyan Universities also face challenges in staffing, capacity for staff development, inadequate facilities, specialized field laboratories and internship opportunities. In short and midterm, promotion of digital learning platform such as video conferencing would enhance sharing of scarce academic staff, while purposive increased scholarships, exchange programmes and exchequer facilitation to support mobility to the field and develop field facilities for selected specializations would motivate the society and enhance relevant quality education.